A brace by Edison Luis dos Santos in the second half paved the way for Hibernians as they claimed the tenth FA Trophy in the history of the club, beating Qormi 3-1. A repeat of last year’s result in the final between the same two teams.

The Paolites were a better side throughout the ninety minutes and Qormi, who were chasing the first major honour, spent most of the time controlling their opponents in this 75th edition of the U*BET FA Trophy.

Qormi and Hibernians will be contesting the 75th edition of the U*BET FA Trophy as the two teams cross swords in Wednesday’s final, kick-off at 19:30.

This final is a repeat of last year’s final when the Paolites emerged as winners by three goals to one to lift the trophy for the ninth time.

Hibernians will be facing Qormi in next Wednesday’s U*BET FA Trophy final after defeating Valletta 3-2 in a semi-final marked by two incidents surrounding two penalties towards the end of the first half.

In fact, Hibs were awarded a penalty eight minutes from the end of the first half and Valletta had two players sent off, including goalkeeper Manuel Bartolo, in a couple of minutes’ time. The Paolites went two goals ahead but in added time, it was the turn of Valletta to be awarded a penalty and reduce the gap with Hibs captain Mario Muscat being sent off. In the second half, Hibs increased the lead but Valletta narrowed the gap in added time.

This will be the second consecutive final between Hibs and Qormi after the Paolites won their ninth Trophy last year beating them 3-1

A goal by Edison Bilbao Zarate mid-way through the second half enabled Qormi to reach a third final of the U*BET FA Trophy as they defeated First Division side Lija Athletic 1-0. In next Wednesday’s final, they will face the winners of the clash between Valletta and Hibernians.

Lija, who had eliminated Premier League side Floriana in the fourth round, gave a very good account of themselves, having their fair share of scoring opportunities and hitting the bar but ended the game in nine men after having two players sent off.

Valletta and Hibernians will be all out to claim a place in the final of the U*BET FA Trophy as the two teams cross swords in the second semi-final which will be played on Saturday, kick-off at 18:00.

After winning two consecutive championships, the Citizens finished a disappointing third and although they won the BOV Super Cup earlier this season, winning the second major honour is a must.